Muscle cramps and stiffness slowing you down?

Why muscles cramp and stiffen

A cramp is a sudden, tight squeeze of a muscle that can be sharp and hard to release. Stiffness is a slower tightness that makes moving feel heavy and limited.

These can follow long sitting, tired or overused muscles, or simply moving less than the body needs. Cold, dehydration and some medicines can play a part too.

Stiff, crampy muscles often ease with the right mix of gentle movement, stretching and warmth. Physiotherapy helps you find what settles yours.

What a physiotherapist works on

Our physiotherapist looks at which muscles cramp or stiffen, how you move, and what tends to set them off. This shapes a plan that suits you.

We use gentle stretching, guided movement and simple strengthening so the muscles cope with daily demands. Muscles that are used well cramp less.

We also teach a warm-up and wind-down routine, and show the family how to help ease a tight muscle safely. The aim is smoother, freer movement through the day.

Gentle ways to ease tight muscles

A slow, held stretch often releases a cramp better than a hard tug. Warmth, like a warm towel or a warm shower, helps a stiff muscle let go.

Moving regularly through the day keeps muscles from setting. Gentle, frequent movement beats long stillness followed by a big effort.

Staying well hydrated and keeping to a comfortable routine can reduce night cramps for some people. We tailor simple habits to what your body responds to.

When to see a doctor first

Most everyday cramps and stiffness are safe to work with, but some signs need a doctor. See one if cramps are severe, frequent, or come with muscle weakness that is getting worse.

Get prompt help if a single muscle, often the calf, is swollen, hot and painful, as this needs to be ruled out as a clot.

Stiffness with numbness, spreading weakness, or a known condition like diabetes deserves a doctor’s view. We work alongside the medical team and start movement once it is safe.